By Karen Black
Maskne — The New Skin Issue On The Rise [Maskne = The umbrella term for the typical adverse effects of mask usage]
Wearing a face mask has become a part of our daily routine to slow the spread of COVID-19. But wearing a mask can come with its challenges for your skin. This can induce skin problems from redness and discomfort to flare-ups such as acne, eczema, rosacea, and perioral dermatitis.
The acid mantle is a delicate balance of lipids and is comprised of the microbiome and other components of the skin’s delicate matrix. There is an increased chance of acne when wearing a mask because of the obstruction. Long-term mask-wearing can cause friction. Depending on the design and material of the mask, it can result in irritation. Consider the fabric of the face covering. Some masks are treated with harsh chemicals. Similarly, wearing a mask washed in a fragrant detergent might irritate the skin.
A skin evaluation helps in determining your predisposition to certain kinds of skin issues, helps us find the root-cause of skin problems. Stress and nutrition are also factors to be considered. Stress is known to cause breakouts, while certain foods can either cause or aggravate conditions such as rosacea and perioral dermatitis. When you have got a cystic pimple, it is most likely not due to your mask; you could have a stressful situation in your life, are overindulged in comfort food, or a hormonal change that causes acne.
“Skin consultations can take place at the clinic or via video consultation. I use the Observ 520 a diagnostic device in the clinic to reveal skin issues. It takes the customer on a journey to discover their skin and visualize the characteristics in the various layers of their skin.” Karen Black.
Corneotherapy is a term for the repair and maintenance of the skin barrier. It uses an individualized approach to improve barrier disordered and inflamed skin. This outside-in approach is for people who want long-term healthy-looking skin without having to go through trial and error with expensive procedures or painful treatments – to help you achieve that clear complexion and radiant glow back.
Minimizing Maskne
● Gentle cleaners; products that contain emulsifiers or fragrances. These ingredients can irritate your skin and make it harder for your symptoms to heal.
● Take a break with makeup or tone it down. Generic cosmetics such as foundation and concealer can clog up pores.
● Wash fabric masks using unscented, hypoallergenic laundry detergent, then let it dry completely.
● Toss disposable masks after each use
● The American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends removing your mask for 15 minutes every 4 hours to help give the skin a break.
● Wash your face after wearing a mask and apply a corneotherapeutic skincare, I recommend Dermaviduals that uses skin-identical ingredients.
● If maskne is severe, consult a skin expert immediately.
“Work has always been much more than a job – it’s my passion, I love doing what I do. There’s no better feeling than being able to change people’s skin and lives for the better through knowledge of skin. It’s a beautiful thing.” Karen Black
Karen Black | Skin Expert – Corneotherapist
karen@skinperfectionn.com | www.skinperfectionnz.com | ph. 021.02777442 |
172 B Wither Road, 7201 Blenheim, Marlborough